Rolex
1978 Rolex GMT-Master (Ref. 1675) Mk. II Dial "Blueberry"
Within the vintage Rolex collecting community, the all-blue “Blueberry” bezel insert has become a well-known variation associated with the GMT-Master reference 1675. While period Rolex catalogs and advertising materials do not document a factory configuration pairing the reference with an all-blue bezel, many collectors believe these inserts originated through Rolex service channels rather than standard production.
Examples began appearing within the collecting market in the early 2000s, reportedly sourced from an official Rolex service center. Because of this, many seasoned collectors view the Blueberry insert as a period Rolex service component produced during the lifespan of the GMT-Master rather than a bezel fitted to watches when originally delivered from the factory. The deep blue tone of the insert offers a distinctive alternative to the more commonly seen red and blue “Pepsi” or all-black bezel configurations and has become a recognizable aesthetic within the broader GMT-Master collecting landscape. Interestingly, the "Blueberry" inserts do possess key font and manufacturing characteristics seen in other period inserts, such as serrifs on the font
Today, the Blueberry insert represents one of the many fascinating variations that emerged during the decades-long production of the GMT-Master. For collectors who appreciate the nuances of vintage Rolex components and the subtle evolution of the model over time, it remains a compelling and visually striking configuration.
SPECS
| Stock # | RLXGMT781675BB-2 | |
| Brand | Rolex | |
| Style | GMT-Master | |
| Model | 1675 | |
| Serial | 51XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Mk. II" | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Bracelet | Rolex 62510H Jubilee Bracelet W/ 555 End Pieces |
CASE & BRACELET
The sharp chase shows wear from use, yet is believed to remain in an unpolished condition, as the case retains its original factory case chamfers and is overall symmetrical, showing thick and even lugs. The excellent "blueberry" insert, correct with "ghost triangle", shows signs of light fading but retains its striking blue color. The Rolex 62510H Jubilee bracelet with 555 end pieces is a later service unit that retains 19 links that show moderate stretch and will fit up to a 7.75-inch wrist
DIAL & HANDS
The wonderful Mk. II dial remains in flawless condition. The lume plots have taken on a gorgeous creamy patina and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly and, like the dial, exhibit no lume loss or degradation when inspected under UV light. The silver date wheel is era-correct, with "open" 6s and 9s.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.